Monday, December 23, 2024

Advent Readings: Luke 23

Luke 23

The chapter of trial and crucifixion. Or, even better, the chapter of trial, crucifixion, and burial. For all the elements are essential for the ministry of Messiah. So, let’s talk about the burial. Luke points out that Joseph from Arimathea buried Jesus in the tomb “where no one had ever yet been laid” (Luke 23:53). Jesus is the first who will use the tomb.

From the story of triumphant entrance to Jerusalem we know that the disciples prepared for Jesus a colt on which no one has ever yet sat (Luke 19:30).

Jesus was the firstborn of Mary, so He first was in the womb in which no one was placed before.

He invited Levi Matthew to be His disciples, no one else would offer a spiritual leadership to the one who served Roman occupational authorities…

There are other instances I can point out, but I hope you get my point – Jesus is the one Who goes first. That’s why we don’t need to be surprised when St. Paul writes: “and He is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything He might be preeminent” (Colossians 1:18).

I believe Mary had other sons and daughters (Mk. 6:3). I can’t imagine that the owners of the colt would mummify the poor animal and never use it again. I’m pretty sure they did. It is more than possible that the tomb was used by other people and Jesus emptied the space…

Same with the resurrection. He trod the path into eternal life for us. Now we should simply follow Him. Through our trials, our death and burial into resurrection. Thanks be to God!

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